A World Without Racism is Kind

Raising Kind Children

In order to create a kinder world, we must create kinder people. This starts not only with those of us who can understand what this means but also by raising kind children who will eventually be the next generation of adults to lead our world. 

In an article titled Raising a Kind Person, the author Reggie Joiner discusses the benefits and steps for raising kind people. Not only does being kinder make you happier, but it has proven health benefits too. Scientist David Hamilton states that kindness positively impacts the brain, heart, immune system, and may even be a treatment for depression. However, kindness may be a harder concept for children to grasp when upsetting events occur, such as a bully at school or a sibling ruining an art project. This is where simple questions can help direct your child towards compassion and understanding, and away from aggression and revenge. Additionally, these questions steer a child towards kindness through empathy and support. By implementing these practices into the upbringing of our children, it will eventually become second nature for them. 

 

When turning towards anger, have your kids ask themselves…

  • How would that make them feel?
  • How would that make me feel?
  • Look at their face: What do I think they are thinking right now?
  • Are they maybe feeling lonely or left out? 
  • What else might they be upset about?

Having the child put themselves in the other person’s shoes through empathy and understanding, helps them turn away from anger and the urge to fight back. 

  • Is it necessary to fight about this?
  • Is it worth being right or even just winning?
  • Did I _______ just to be cool?
Schoolgirls sharing meal
Portrait Of Multi-Cultural Children Hanging Out With Friends In Countryside Together

In a sense this method has children check themselves and the motives behind their behavior. Many times, they will recognize their fault in the situation and hopefully act with kindness by apologizing or stepping away from the situation. 

  • Are you okay?
  • Is there anything I can do to help?
  • Is there anything you need?
  • Want to play?

Through the demonstration of considerate thinking and inquiry, you are teaching your child to think of kindness instead of hatred.

Through the implementation of these practices, we are teaching the next generation how to be more understanding, instead of turning towards violence. Kindness has been proven to have a ripple effect on anyone around. I truly believe that by raising kind children to further become kind people, bullying, hatred, and negativity will inevitably start to disappear.

What other ways do you spread the kindness philosophy? Please click here to share your ideas, we’d all love to learn more ways to be kind! Take care and stay connected.